I can't believe you're playing trial and error with them.
Why? Jealous?
Hardly, you fucking psycho.
Who are you lying to?
Uh, no one?
Oh, so just yourself then.
Cunt.
Be as profane as you like, Tig-
Don't you fucking dare.
He scowls at her delighted laughter.
Fuck, he hated that stupid name.
So fucking help me, Tina, I will end us if that monstrosity of a name ever crosses your lips.
Ah ha! So there are worse things I can do than alleviating Beam's suspicions and clearing up James' confusion. Which I'm fairly certain ranks even worse than me playing trial and error with a few poisoned smoke bombs.
No-
Wait-
Oh, so I can share it?
I'm not beneath poisoning Hook.
You wouldn't dare!
Wanna try that again, while, I don't know, remembering who the fuck you're talking to this time?
Silence.
He snickers quietly.
Vindictiveness is an ugly trait.
Then you're one helluva unsightly hag.
Another smirk pulls at his lips at her spluttering.
And he thought her silence was golden.
Well I nev-
Never shut up? I agree. So, can you at least attempt to shut your whore mouth, so I can do my job?
Prick.
Ssshh. Working.
He grins spitefully as he settles his attention to the wanna-be Princes below.
It was kinda weird seeing them work.
Weird and entertaining.
He wasn't sure he'd ever seen any of them so clueless, usually they left this type of shit to their underlings.
A part of him wished Hook and the others could also enjoy the show as they squabble over who would do which simple job.
As if wiping down glasses or setting up food was some kind of horrendous burden.
Fucking idiots.
He rolls his eyes before he shifts his focus, eyes narrowing when he finally takes inventory of the tables.
The fuck?
He'd only been to one Howler, but he was still sure that the amount of liquor they were lining up wasn't normal.
Well, that and the herbs they were still rolling into cigarettes.
This was nothing like the Howler Freddie threw.
Then again, she'd thrown her Howler at the school when things had been normal.
Percy wipes a hand across his forehead before he hisses-
What's wrong with his ear?
His eyes narrow as he studies the feeble boy in confusion, frowning when he makes out a faint bloody splotch in the dirty strip of fabric wound hiding under his hair.
Great Question.
"This has to be perfect." Anthony snaps as he claps obnoxiously in time with his words.
"We fucking know," Hans snaps back as he gestures to Percy.
Percy trembles as one of the cigarettes rolls off the table.
"For fuck's sake-" Anthony snaps as he grabs Percy by the collar, "Seriously? Pull your shit together!"
"Or do you feel like losing the other damn ear?" Hans points out far too sweetly.
"Right," Percy squeaks as he bends back over and focuses on his project.
T-
Yeah, I heard.
He glares at Hans, though he doubted the kid had the stomach to do something so barbaric.
"Where the fuck is Thomas with that damn stereo!" Anthony growls as he tosses the fallen cigarette back onto the pile, "I swear, you're all fucking useless."
Technically, they were all useless.
T!
What? Name one thing you like about them.
…
Percy is kinda sweet.
Tch, you're just saying that cause he's pathetic and you're a fucking bleeding heart. Are you forgetting how he's a complete prick to Urchins? Shit always runs downhill.
She huffs.
Maybe he isn't the best human.
Ha!
Just say it. C'mon. Say it- You owe me.
Ugh, fine. You were right, okay? He's useless and mean.
Boom bitch in your face.
You are such a poor winner.
His gaze dips to the notebook laying open on his knee.
They were all in place.
No one moving.
Everything was fine so far.
Fuck, he hated this.
Hated feeling responsible for others.
It had been bad enough with just Hook.
A shiver runs down his spine as the image of Harry bleeding out in the alley they'd been ambushed in.
That had been his fault.
Harry had been following his lead, and it had almost gotten him killed.
He wasn't sure he could handle another fucking shit show like that.
Wasn't sure he would survive it.
He didn't want to be in charge of others.
Fuck, it was half the reason he was so pissed when he found out they shared a body.
Is it?
Damn it.
He scowls.
No.
Little Liar.
"Finally!" Anthony rubs his hands together as he stands in front of a ridiculously large stereo, "at least the music will be loud."
I fucking hope it's busted.
Or the speakers were blown.
Overwhelming garbage, throwing him the fuck off.
Really? I love it.
Cause you're a garbage person.
She snorts.
That one was actually rather clever. You're getting quicker.
He glares suspiciously.
She never complimented his wit.
He didn't trust it.
What the fuck did you do?
My god, T, what do you think of me?
Besides the fact that you're terrifying? Uh, let me think-
I am not terrifying. She sniffs in indignation.
Oh?
May I remind you of that time Harriett woke us up, and you rode us into the dirt? Cause I remember it, quite clearly in fact.
I also recall taking the blame for it.
Are you saying you don't want to protect me anymore?
His chest restricts at the hurt coloring her tone.
Wait-No, that's not what I meant and you know it.
So, you forgive me then?
God-damn it.
This fucking bitch was going to be the death of him.
He was starting to get a headache.
The music was way too fucking loud. And whatever they'd done to make the beat vibrate like the Isle was shaking again was obnoxious.
He could feel the stupid music reverberating through his entire damn body.
It was so much louder than he'd ever felt before.
He shakes his head, doing his best to focus on the chaos below.
Too many.
Too much.
Too much and many.
He couldn't even count the kids packed into this shit show.
Too many kids drinking and smoking the shit Percy rolled into little pieces of paper.
Fucking idiots.
And seriously, where the fuck had they gotten all of this shit?
Fuck knew Anthony's little posse weren't scavengers.
Speaking of the prick-He rolls his eyes when he catches Anthony standing in the middle of yet another ring of adoring 'subjects' bowing to his rule.
"Dance, Dance, I command it!" Anthony shouts over the din of the stupid music and the senseless drum beat constantly thumping against his ears. "Dance! Eat! Drink! Smoke!" He holds his drink high above his head, sloshing the liquid all over himself, "tonight we don't give a fuck!"
Freddie hadn't been nearly this awful-
And she'd dragged his ass to the damned thing.
His eyes sweep to the side of the warehouse, where he could see some of the kids sitting against the wall, already looking close to passing out.
Had they gone too hard, too fast?
Or-
His eyes narrow as he looks around the room, spotting other groups in similar situations.
Yawning.
Sluggish.
Compliant.
I don't like that word or your tone.
Nor should you.
Great, like he didn't have a bad enough feeling.
No one seemed to be in any shape to handle whatever the fuck was coming.
May I divert your attention to 'the king'.
His neck snaps as he searches for Anthony.
Ooh, that feeble fucking bitch ass wanna be prince-
Was that bastard even drinking his drink?
Or was he getting so many refills because he was bouncing to the beat with his drink above his head?
Sloshing.
Getting it everywhere-
He grimaces.
-everywhere except in his fucking mouth.
His eyes narrow as they continue to search the crowd.
Hans had one of the rolled papers in his mouth. He even pulled it out, seemingly playing around with it before he set it back between his lips.
Percy was so busy kissing ass it was hard to tell what the fuck he was up to.
And Thomas was busy hunting, unsuccessfully, but notably hadn't touched anything that was being offered.
And he hadn't been able to find Reginald since the party started.
A chill runs down his spine.
No.
He promised them-
Wrote to Uma and the others that everything would be fine.
They'd be smart.
Swore he'd be careful.
Told them he'd be safe.
Stay hidden.
But-
He scans the sluggish crowd again.
Fuck.
His jaw tenses.
Stupid.
He was so fucking stupid.
He should have interceded at the first 'tipsy' looking person.
He picks up his pen, but before he can put it to paper.
Movement!
-H
Same!
-J
Me too!
-B
Shit.
From all sides?
Everyone's drugged
-T
It's witches on this side.
I can see spells.
-B
T-
A grin tugs at his lips at her tone.
These guys look like soldiers coming out of buildings!
-H
Get the fuck out of there!
-U
-ready to play a game?
Always. What'cha thinkin'?
Wait for it.
Ugh, right now?
That game sucked.
What type of bull shit game had you sit still and do nothing?
T, give me some credit. The objective of this round is to wait for the most opportune time to act. As in, the longer we stay, the more we can take out. So. Wait. For. it.
Alright, alright, alright. I'm listening.
That's my T.
His eyes narrow, jus' cause we're playing this game doesn't mean you get to treat me like a fucking dog again.
What, you needed to be trained. Twitchy.
He winces.
Ugh.
He never thought he'd hear that name again.
He nearly jumps when someone screams.
And then more join the first.
Screams?
Why were people screaming?
Wait for it...
But-
Wait for it...
They're screaming thou-
Wait for it…
His muscles tighten as he grits his teeth.
This was fucking killing him.
What was happening?
Wait for it…
"I see your Howler has been very successful, Anthony."
He shivers at the deep voice as it easily cuts through the fast beat and screams.
Commanding.
Smooth.
Enthralling.
"Atilla," Anthony greets stiffly as he shoves his way through the crowd, gestures wildly for someone to lower the music, though it doesn't seem to help the thrum that shook with every beat, "glad you could make it."
"You should be," Atilla nods, his face grim as he appears to search the crowd before he focuses on Anthony, "but I have some very unfortunate news."
Anthony visibly pales as his drink slips from his fingers, "Un- unfortunate news?"
"You had to know it was rather foolish to throw this at night." Atilla sighs as the group that followed him moves around the room to the exits.
His eyes narrow.
No.
No fucking way.
Over his dead body was he on the same fucking page as fucking Atilla.
Focus!
But-
The doors idiot! They're blocking the exits.
He frowns as he moves his eyes to the closest door where the men were taking up what looked like defensive stances, but-
Why are they facing the wrong way?
I'm sure we're about to find out…
"Why would the witches bother us?" Anthony asks, his voice almost flippant if it weren't for the quiver, "I made sure their children were invited. We're just a bunch of fucking kids who are over this whole-"
Atillia's raised hand interrupts him.
"Do you see any of their descendants here?"
"Well I uh-"
"Let me make this easy for you," Atilla slowly shakes his head before he turns to address the rest of the room, "there are no witches here, because the witches are surrounding this place as we speak."
Wait a minute.
That all happened at the same time.
Did-
Fuck.
Wait for it!
"So now," Atilla holds out a hand as he slowly spins, "I offer all of you a choice. And I ask that you consider it very, very carefully."
Shouldn't we at least let Uma know?
Let me do it. You stay.
My apologies Uma,
At the moment, it is not safe to move.
Atilla has entered and we're surrounded.
We're waiting it out.
We will scratch page when
it's safe for us to run.
-F
He could barely feel his arm moving as he watches Atilla sweep his eyes around the room again.
What the hell is he-
Who.
Who what?
You said what, but he's looking for a who.
His eyes swing back to Atilla, watching the way the boy's amber eyes search the crowd.
Huh.
What poor fuck had drawn that pricks attention?
Someone wise enough to forgo a Howler, apparently.
His forehead hits the rafter with a dull thud.
Really?
Ah, there we are. All caught up.
I hate you.
Little liar.
Call me little one more time-
Don't tell me that the little brother comment is still getting to you?
Shut your whore mouth!
T- younger or older, you'll always be my big brother. Now pay attention!
Despite himself, he grins.
Wait- Shit!
Right.
His eyes fall back to Atilla.
"I can protect anyone who wishes to join me. Right now. Anyone who walks over to my men at the doors will be protected. Not only that, but you will be taught. I know the smart ones among you have sensed the building tension between the old villains. A phony election. Disappearances. Underhanded killings?" Atilla sighs and shakes his head.
"As if anyone in their right mind would follow a low ranking member of such a laughable military. A man with no plan to deal with the witches now at these very doors. Let me clear any air of doubt you may have. My father, Shan Yu, will win this coming battle. And he will win it because he has been preparing for this moment since I can remember." Atilla presses one hand to his temple, "he's been ready for years, just waiting for this opportunity."
His eyes narrow.
That fuck.
Very suave.
Oh, shut up!
What? He is. Look how quickly he turned an attack into a recruitment. It's quite the skillful strategy.
Ugh. Don't sound fucking impressed!
What? It is impressive. I never would have thought to do this. Objectively? This was brilliant. I don't know what he offered the witches, but brilliant.
What do you mean offered-
"I know in the past it has been every VK for themselves, and fuck those lower than us, but that needs to end. Here." Atilla points to the ground, "Now! If we do not stand together; VKs, Sidekick, Nobodies, then we are doomed to be ripped apart. So who will join me? Who will-"
"Oh fuck off Atilla," Cora rolls her eyes as she walks forward, "This is a Howler, so go get buzzed and shut the fuck up. Some of us don't give a shit about the adults."
T-
He groans, I see her.
Fucking thrill seeking idiot.
He knew CJ hung with Cora, but to follow her here?
And I thought our Hook was reckless.
Do you really have a rafter to perch on in that regard?
Presently? Yes.
Atilla sighs, "Cora. As foolish as ever I see." He shakes his head before he looks around the room again, "how long do you think you can hide from this? Hide from the agenda of the witches? Hide from the ever widening division of our parents? If you've reached the same conclusion as I," he raises his hand, gesturing as if offering it for anyone to take, "then join me."
His eyes widen when people actually start moving towards closer.
Hesitant.
But surely.
He swallows a groan.
Seriously?
People were actually buying this shit?
Why wouldn't they? Certain death or a chance at survival? Easy choice for any VK, Sidekick kid, or Urchin worth their salt. Attila is quite the formidable opponent, as you well know. There's a lot of validity in his claims. Add to that such a stirring proclamation. An out for those who would surely fall during the ensuing wars? It's quite a-
Will you stop that!
"Squad one, rush the smart ones to safety." Atilla commands in a clear tone.
"SIR!" The doors bang open and groups are rushed from the warehouse, disappearing into a night interrupted by various flashing colors as magic explodes around them.
The sight sends a chill down his spine.
It also spurs others to join the exiting groups before another team of Atilla's men step up to the doors to secure them.
"I see that the magic being flung around outside was not enough to convince all of you of the danger." Atilla sighs as he shakes his head, "pity."
"Pity you couldn't trick everyone?" Cora's trilling, obnoxiously high pitch laugh makes his eye twitch.
Oh, Cora...
His eyes narrow at the exasperation coloring her tone.
Oh, Cora, what?
"Cora, leader of my most oppositional gang in the past." Atilla continues to shake his head as he slowly walks over to her, "the plans my father has for those who do not fall in line is not a thing I would wish upon anyone, not even you."
A shiver that wasn't his runs down his spine as Atilla stops dead in front of Cora, forcing the much shorter girl to tilt her head back in order to continue glaring at him.
What?
T, don't do anything stupid. It was over the minute she refuted him.
He tenses at her tone.
At the warning.
The resignation.
Wait- What? What's over?
Wait for it…
His eyes narrow.
Atilla extends a hand to her, "join me," his smile was disarming in its sincerity, "I would value your insight and experience in this new world we can build. One where we all work together to not only survive, but thrive."
Oh, he's good.
Will you fucking stop!
"I refuse!" Cora shoves his hand away as she spits in his face, "if you say it's the only way to survive then I'll happily do the opposite."
Atilla slowly shakes his head, "you've always been the obstinate one," he wipes one hand across his face before he steps closer and brushes his fingers over Cora's cheek, "I was really hoping you would see reason."
So sincere. But more so-
"But, you're just as crazy as ever, and if people need an example before they see reason-" Atilla's eyes harden as he steps back and unsheathes his sword.
The fuck!
Twitchy! I said wait for it!
His muscles lock in place, stopping before he can even shift his position.
He watches in horror as Cora's head rolls, her body collapsing at Atilla's feet as he sheathes his blood stained blade.
Calculating. I was going to say this was very calculating,
The fuck-We're discussing your idols after this.
Atilla sighs before he turns back to the shocked crowd. "As I said before, I would not wish the plans my father has for those who do not willingly join his army on my worst enemy. Cora, and the beliefs she represents, are the old ways. Ways that no longer work." His eyes slide over Cora's silent gang, "ways that will get more of you killed if you attempt to follow her."
How proficient. He truly is gifted in his art.
Gifted? Are you-He just fucking decapitated-
Exactly. He didn't even flinch. He was doing her a favor.
How the fuck was that a-
You're looking at this all wrong, dear brother. This is a master at work. Look at the crowd. Most that remain are eating from his palm.
He's saving them. That's what he's showing them.
Empathy.
Regret.
Sadness.
He's doing all of it.
So?
So? So! This is manipulation at its finest. Pay attention, you might learn something.
Like fucking what?
Like the fact our enemy is so well versed in this game. We knew he was formidable, that much was obvious. I had not taken his charisma into account.
Great.
As if the future hadn't been a daunting enough task.
The more we know, the better chance of survival.
Attila holds his hand out to the group again, "So, let me ask one more time. Who will join me?"
He swallows his scoff.
Look how they listen. How those once so stony are softening to the idea. It's all so polished. But not rehearsed. And here I thought his father deadly.
Seriously?
He watches with a sinking feeling in his gut as more people move towards the exits, or, even stranger, closer to Atilla.
Even CJ isn't foolish enough to argue with him.
What the hell was he watching? Wasn't it bad enough like they'd come like lambs to the slaughter?
How the hell-
He'd been expecting something awful, but this-
Was so artfully done.
Artful!?
Deez is fucking artful!
Gil-
Evie-
Carlos-
Dizzy-
Fuck, Mal is fucking artful!
This! This was a fucking full on massacre!
There are many a form of art.
Many a- Can we evaluate your definition!?
Now hardly seems the time for that.
Atilla grins as he looks out over the room, "excellent." He raises his voice, "Team two, get them to safety and send in team three to clean up."
"SIR!"
He watches in horror as more kids are led out into the night, though this time the air was not so thick with magic.
Wait for it!
He frowns when he finds himself frozen.
But-
Wait for it.
Was she fucking serious right now?
Their peers were being led to the fucking slaughter, and she wanted to drool over-
Hardly! Don't be so crass. I only have eyes for one Prince.
Who I'm sure is going to just love hearing how you gushed-
"Anthony, we've had our share of bumps along the way, but you've certainly proved your loyalty." He holds his hand out, "I could use your skills in my inner gang."
Even from this height, he could see Anthony tremble.
"Come on," Attila summons him with a gesture, "shake my hand, you've earned this spot."
He watches as Anthony, shoulders pulled back like the proud Tremaine he was, walks over and holds out a hand with trepidation.
His breath stills as he feels Faustina's unbeckoned dread creep over him.
"However-" Atilla's hand closes like a vice, "I'm not seeing anyone here that was on the list."
The Yu soldiers suddenly storm in, breaking the charged silence, as those who were still out of it are thrown over their shoulders and carried out.
But his eyes never stray from the two.
His jaw was aching with tension.
His palms slick with fear.
List?
He would've swallowed if his throat weren't so dry.
Uma.
Gil.
Deez.
Hook.
Freddie.
Dizzy.
Fuck, maybe even Beam and James too.
Anyone who held leverage.
Power.
Ties.
People who mattered.
…
Everyone who mattered to him.
Oh, I have no doubt that's exactly who was on his list. My Prince and our Captain are not ones to miss out on a good time, and where they go, our Lion follows. But I fear it's our missing Star Gazer that's gotten him so mercurial.
The noises of protest begin to die down as the soldiers methodically remove the incapacitated
Atilla looks at the others surrounding him, gesturing for them to calm, "follow instructions, and no harm will befall anyone. Now, follow my men."
When Anthony attempts to follow the group, Atilla's hand slams down on his shoulder, "I believe we were still talking."
Anthony's eyes widen to the size of saucers as he yelps, "my apologies!"
"Now, as it stands, I've only taken out one leader. Shan Yu will not be at all pleased with this." Atilla sighs absently as he eyes the dark corners, "But, more importantly, If I don't stand as the only leader among the second generation, more of us will be hurt and killed as a war of escalation rages across the Isle."
Dread fills him as his eyes flit to Cora's head for the briefest moment.
Shit. Shit. Shit. Shit. Shit.
Wait for it!
"I can still help you, I swear," Anthony stumbles over himself as he shifts under the pain of Atilla's grip on his shoulder, "Please. I mean, you got the twins-"
But-
Wait for it!
"Oh, the twins are here?" Atilla's attention switches so fast that Anthony nearly collapses without the bigger kid's hand keeping him upright, "show me. I'd very much enjoy getting to chat about their father's little rebellious group of hunters."
Anthony doesn't hesitate to point out the two hulking boys that were currently watching from the far corner, looking as intimidating as ever, even if one looked completely oblivious.
"Shall we have a conversation with them then?" Atilla laughs as he pats Anthony roughly on the back.
"I'd love nothing more." Anthony says, voice tighter than he'd ever heard it.
Wait for it.
He sighs in relief as they slowly adjust on the beam, so they don't draw any attention.
He didn't even care that she was being a hypocrite. Anything was better than having Atilla at his back.
"How was the Howler boys?" Atilla asks as he walks up to the twins.
"There've been better." Junior shrugs.
He's forced to bite back a snort.
What a time for the jackass to grow a sense of humor.
"You don't say." Atilla chuckles as he shifts slightly, his gaze bouncing between the twins.
His eyes narrow.
He knew that look.
Intimately.
It was the same one Deez wore everytime she was connecting a damned fucking dot.
It's prettier on her.
Great. He rolls his eyes.
But what the fuck was Atilla trying to figure out?
"I do." Junior lifts a brow.
"No matter, though," Third nods as he shifts his weight, clearly trying to hide the fact he was gripping Junior's bicep to keep him still. "We learned our lesson from the last one."
Poor fucking bastard.
He'd hate to have to be that leash.
"Ah, learning from the past." Atilla smiles as he leans towards Third, "now that is something worth respecting."
"Shame there ain't nothin' worth respectin' here." Junior retorts.
Third's knuckles turn white, though he doesn't say anything.
"And if I were any less a man, I would feel the tiny prick of your impotent remark." Atilla grins, his voice smooth as he turns, effectively ignoring Junior, to focus on Third, "but you seem smarter than your brother here. You're cautious, calculating, but very much forced to live in a shadow." He extends his hand, "join me, let's see how great you can be without the dead weight."
"Third," Junior snarls as he fails miserably to knock Atilla's hand away, "don't you fuckin' dare."
"Junior, stop talking." Third frowns at his brother, "we're good, but we're not-" he gestures to the men lingering in the warehouse, watching the exchange like hawks, "that good."
"Great assessment." Atilla nods, but his rolling wrist prompts Third to continue talking.
"We're good in a fight. Strong. Better trained than most. We'd be useful," Third quickly blurts out.
"I wouldn't be wasting time trying to convince you to join me if I didn't know that." Atilla looks from Third to his own hand and back, "I'm offering you a place in my gang. And a place in my gang comes with perks, like keeping those you care about safe."
"He was talking to me," Junior rolls his eyes, "not your over inflated ass."
"Was he?" Atilla asks as he takes Third's hand and shakes it.
"Hey, ya can't just make deals with-"
"Junior-" Third frowns, "please just, shut up and do what he says."
He bites his lip.
Please.
Just shut the fuck up.
Junior?
He couldn't give a fuck less. Piece of shit.
But Third?
He'd never be able to go home to Gil if-
FOCUS!
He shakes his head. Right.
"Are you fuckin' serious right now?" Junior snaps.
Third nods silently as he knocks a dagger out of the hand Junior was hiding behind his back.
"That was a smart move, Third, am I right?"
"Tch, what gave'it away?" Junior rolls his eyes.
"Yeah," Third says as he scans the hall before he pauses and closes his eyes.
Oh no.
He freezes.
Shit.
Shit!
Shit. Don't look up. Don't look up.
Ever since their first meeting, Third always looked up whenever he was-
A pit drops in his stomach.
Third...
He flinches at the forlorn pitch.
"I mean, yes sir. Uh. Atilla, sir." Third grimaces before he takes a breath and opens his eyes again, "An' I can have those, smart moves I mean."
He bites his lip to keep from sighing.
Of fucking course.
He was sorely outnumbered.
Out maneuvered.
Even with his darts.
Even if by some miracle Junior would join him and Third.
There was no fucking way-
Not when there was so much riding on this getting back to their family.
"I look forward to them." Atilla smiles before he looks around, "but, correct me if I'm wrong, don't you have another brother?"
Third's eyes harden.
"The fuck ya want that Shrimp for?" Junior scoffs, "he's fuckin' useless."
Atilla frowns before he tilts his head to the side, "is he?" He turns back to Third, "useless I mean."
Third frowns, "to you."
"Gilly Girl-"
Wait for it!
"So he managed to survive the recent Isle upsets?"
"Yeah," Junior scoffs, "him an' that damn fire bitch."
"Oh? I thought the Demi-goddess had been taken to Auradon."
Third sighs before he shakes his head.
"No, she's here all right. And the tiny bitch is just as out of fuckin' control as ever." Junior scoffs. "We were just talking to her, asked her if she wanted to join us, and then suddenly she attacked us. Ungrateful bitch."
Another sigh leaves Third, "it still seems best to run when she's on fire." He states with impressive dryness.
He bites back a snort.
Third had jokes tonight.
Atilla watches Junior with that same understanding expression before he shifts the look to Third.
After what seemed like a silent eternity, he nods, "good to know. I'll keep that in mind if I ever run into her." He pats Third on the back, "now, why don't you follow me while we look around for the rest of my new recruits."
Third looks back at Junior.
"He's important to you," Atilla nods slowly, "I understand. And nothing will happen to him so long as he follows instructions."
"Oh." Third groans before he turns and decks Junior hard enough on the jaw to make him spin.
Atilla chuckles as Junior slumps to the ground. "There's more of those smart moves you've promised."
"He listens better like this." Third shrugs.
He blinks.
That wasn't what he'd expected.
To be fair, the only person who could have seen that is at the temple with our Captain and Lion.
"My men will see to it that he's taken to safety." Atilla whistles as he gestures to the crumpled form before he takes Third and Anthony by the shoulders again. "Now, why don't you two tell me more about the Shadow. I can't help but notice his distinct absence."
His heart jumps to his throat as Third's eyes absently shift to look up before they widen and his head snaps back to Atilla.
You can't be mad, that wasn't the poor thing's fault.
Not mad. Just, ya know, time to go.
"Ah. Hello Shadow." Atilla greets cheerfully as his head tilts back, "I was hoping to catch you here."
"Well, you know me." He grins, "oh, wait. You don't. It'd be killing me if I were you. Not knowing who the fuck I was dealing with. Or what their motive was. Or how the fuck they ended up mattering in the first place."
"You seem to be of the opinion that I know nothing of you." Attila chuckles before he gestures, "would you care to join me, so we can get to know each other better?"
"Nah, sycophancy isn't my thing."
"You don't say," Atilla states as he tilts his head to the side, "you haven't exactly hidden your disdain for bowing and scraping."
"Huh, and here I thought I was subtle."
"I am interested in what your definition of subtle is." Attila shakes his head, "because if that was subtle, I would be delighted to see your overt."
"I bet you'd be delighted." He snorts.
"But it's the truth, Shadow." Attila holds out a hand, "imagine the things we could accomplish together, if only you would be willing to chat."
"Who the fuck ya think you're talkin' to?" He gestures towards the decapitated head, "Cora-"
Attila shakes his head, "you are far more clever than that."
"Me and ninety-nine percent of the Isle, apparently."
"Ninety-nine?" Attila's eyes sweep the remains of the once overwhelming party, "clearly you are too generous with your assessment." His eyes narrow thoughtfully, his expression once more uncomfortably resembling Deez's when something clicks.
T, stop talking.
And what exactly? I ain't exactly thrilled by those constellations either.
"I have many things I wish to discuss with you. A veritable web of theories and predictions concerning the current situation the Isle finds itself in." His eyes lower as his face contorts in pain, "and the people who may end up trapped in that same web if we can't set aside our differences and work towards a greater goal."
"Thanks, but pass. I ain't much of a discussion person."
"I find it sad you care so little for those you claim to protect." Attila tuts softly, "it's a shame you won't even consider a conversation to check the breadth of my knowledge."
"As extensive as I'm sure that is- Cause, yeah, I know big words too, I think I'll manage."
"What could have been a pleasant conversation will simply become a chore," Attila shakes his head sadly, "more's the pity."
"Would love to trade definitions sometime."
T! He's signaling something to his men.
Well, this is gonna suck.
"No time like the present." Attila gestures grandly, "I'm afraid anything after this opportunity will be far less amiable."
"I do fare better with hostility."
Attila's eyes flash before he grins, "care to put that to a wager then?"
Damn it-
T!
"You come down for a rematch," Attila offers, "if you win, you and all you wish to protect can leave. But if I win, you hear me out."
"With all of your Dad's men about, Je-"
Don't!
"-sus fuck, even I ain't that stupid."
"How else can I guarantee you won't skitter off into the shadows?" Attila chuckles before he crosses his arms over his chest, "but I am a man of my word. You win, you go free. No one would dare harm you if I order your release."
He eyes the room before he snorts, "yeah. I somehow doubt that."
Attila nods, "I understand. It's hard to trust anyone, even more so now that the Isle has deteriorated further. But," he claps his hands against Third and Anthony's backs, "if we are to move forward, we have to find some way to test the trust that needs to form. There simply is no other way."
He frowns, unsure he'd ever felt bad for Anthony before.
"Rain check on that trust game."
Attila sighs, "the Spider can not win this, you have to know that."
"What's he got ta do with it?"
Attila chuckles as he pats Third and Anthony, "why don't you two join the others, it would seem the Shadow is playing coy."
"Yes, sir." Third nods as he grabs Anthony by the arm and drags him out of the warehouse without so much as a second glance.
Shit.
His eyes dart around the now empty room as a rock lodges in his stomach.
"What does the Spider have to do with this indeed," Attila laughs, "or have you forgotten?"
"Forgotten…"
What did you do?
Nothing!
"Interesting." Attila absently rubs his bottom lip, "very interesting."
"Pretty damn," he nods, "but uh, what part are you finding interesting exactly?"
"I believe the saying goes something like," Attila snaps his fingers as if he were searching for words before his eyes narrow tauntingly, "why don't you come down here and make me tell you."
"Normally I would take you up on that, but-" He shrugs, "kinda busy right now."
"Busy?" Attila looks around, "inside this room we have all the time we need. Once you step outside though…" his voice trails off.
Great.
"Really? Cause all I see is a stalemate."
"I know more than you want me to know, know things you've forgotten, and you-" Attila rolls his wrist, gesturing for him to fill in the blank.
"Are shoving circles into squares, yeah, yeah. I get it. Welcome to the intricacies of me."
"The fact you are willing to attempt escape without knowing what it is I know tells me more than you can fathom." Attila shakes his head as he dips a hand into his pocket.
"I wouldn't do that if I were you." He sighs. "Neither of us wants what's about to happen."
"Oh, I assure you, I very much do."
A single heartbeat passes in complete silence.
The screams outside fade away.
The streaks of colored magic fade outside the single set of open doors.
And then Attila whips his hand free.
His eyes widen at the sharp pain blossoming in his side before the room spins.
T!
As sudden as the attack had been-
If she hadn't been with him-
What he thought had been the room spinning because he was falling from the rafters was actually her nimbly grasping the beam to circle and land on the one beside it.
Attila smiles, "well, I'll give you this, that was graceful."
"Go fuck yourself."
"Did I strike a nerve?"
"Yeah, with what? A fucking rock."
"It would seem graceful struck deeper."
If your next action isn't getting us out, I'm telling Uma about this insubordination. We promised we wouldn't engage- Stop.
But-
Insubordination. Uma. Beam. Gi-
He growls.
Fine.
"So not coming down then?" Attila shakes his head as he takes another stone from his pocket, "I had much higher hopes for this conversation."
"You an' everyone else." He rolls his eyes.
T! That's a good boy!
Shit.
He dodges the rock before he bolts and vaults out a window.
Nothing, and I mean nothing is as amusing to me as T and Faustina banter, mostly because it reminds me of my other personalities and myself bicker.
I know, I know-
This has to be some type of form of masterbation but-
I'm fucking hilarious on paper.
Seriously-
Vindictiveness is an ugly trait.
Then you're one helluva unsightly hag.
One of my favorite lines, definitely snorted rereading that one. I can only hope it's the same for you guys. I mean, cool if it isn't-
Not everyone can have an awesome sense of humor. (Lolz, jk, not really though. Get better taste, cause I'm a fucking riot.)
But, seriously, did it make you snort at least?
And, Anthony-
*shakes head*
-what a motherfucking twat.
And, yeah, I get it, Atilla is intimidating but, fuck man, he's still a douche nozzle. As are the rest of those petty ass princes.
I know, I know. CJ being taken is fucking crap but-
She's always been with Cora-
Which, yeah, I know, we stole it from OUaT but, she needed a name and it was just ripe for the taking…
Speaking of Cora though, who was expecting the Red Queen's daughter's-
(huh… Is that too many apostrophes? Can you do possessives back to back? Fuck. Dark! I need Dark… Not that it matters cause this is just an outtro as we call them but still… *shame bell rings* SHAME *shame bell rings* )
-head to roll? (Cause Iroooooony)
Speaking of the other teen leaders-
What are your thoughts on Atilla?
Do you think he's trying to save the other kids from his father's wrath?
Or do you think he's doing his father's bidding?
Maybe a bit of both? (I'm not Uma, I can't read your thoughts- So, pleeeeeeeeeeeeeease tell me- I really wanna know, like so fucking bad. Tell me! Tell me now)
On a completely unrelated note, I made 2 music vidz for T/Faustina's tenuous relationships if you are interested such things… They're on Youtube and our Facebook pages-
Assuming they haven't been taken down yet for copyright. Who knows? I don't.
But if your interested look for-
T's a Sucker for Faustina, as usual I was too lazy and I just labeled the other one Hey Brother but still. I spent a lot of time on that shit, humor me? (you can find us at Dark and Twisted Sisters on you tube)
Please? Like for real- Each vid takes me 6-8 hours and I'm a desperate fucking whore looking for some pets.
Annnnnnnnnnnnnyways, I'm sure you're interested in T's interaction with Atilla *ahem*
T, doesn't want to die anymore
T isn't so stupid he thinks he can win in a one on one fight with Atilla without having the upper hand (like jumping from the shadows)
This interaction was about gathering information not attention
Faustina usually doesn't dissuade him so much
Five and probably buried the lead here, Faustina could die too. And, yeah you might be thinking, 'but then, why the fuck would T attack Atilla after the Spider's appearance? Because it happened quick as shit and he didn't think about- T's short sighted as fuck if you didn't notice… (Dead, think it's a neon sign over T at this point…)
I uh…
Think that's all I got for this one unfortunately, distracted as fuck. Wish me luck on the next chapter.
Much love and appreciation
-Twisted